Vous êtes confronté au choix des matériaux pour un projet de construction. Comment choisir entre la qualité et le coût ?

Choosing the right materials for a construction project is a delicate balance between quality and cost. While lower costs may be tempting, investing in high-quality materials can lead to long-term savings and benefits. Consider factors like durability, energy efficiency, and maintenance costs when making your decision. Evaluate the total cost of ownership, including initial purchase, installation, and future expenses. Sustainability and supplier reputation are also crucial factors to consider. By carefully weighing these elements, you can make informed choices that effectively balance quality and cost for your construction project.

Sometimes low cost materials are tempting and deceptive at the same time. Accordingly, a detailed assessment for all details and for their influence on the quality, long-term savings and sustainability is essential before falling into a trap.

I would separate material into two - Structural and other - Structural should always go for quality. Anything else - should be based on client budget, functionality of the required items etc.

As client u have to make decisions before design development is complete. As a client if you want a good final product never compromise on quality. If you have to make a comprise on quality u need to make it early. Once decision is made proceed with the bid. Once contract is awarded then if u have a supply chain issue u should strive for quality product.

When comparing material options, it's essential to consider not only the upfront costs but also the availability and ease of production of the materials. Additionally, utilizing technical tools like HDM-4 for evaluating life cycle costs can provide a more comprehensive analysis. Equally important is the assessment of environmental impact, as excluding this factor may result in an incomplete comparison. By integrating these elements into the evaluation process, we can ensure a more accurate and well-rounded decision

Conduct a Cost Benefit Analysis Long Term Value: Consider the long term benefits of higher quality materials, such as durability, reduced maintenance, and lower lifecycle costs. Immediate Costs: Compare these benefits against the immediate cost savings of lower quality options.

En construcción, para la selección de materiales en cantidades masivas y/o con caracteristicas técnicas especializadas se suele realizar una rigurosa y anticipada comparativa de diferentes alternativas, en las cuales se evalúa: precio, cumplimiento de las especificaciones técnicas (calidad), disponibilidad local y/o extranjera, nivel de influencia del proveedor en el proyecto, posición del proveedor en el mercado, facilidades de crédito, entre otras variables; acorde a las necesidades y envergadura del proyecto. Es importante, además considerar los procesos administrativos internos de la organización a cargo de las obras los cuales pueden influenciar en la duración del proceso de selección del proveedor.

Tal cual lo indica el epígrafe 2: " Algunos materiales pueden tener un precio inicial más alto, pero podrían ahorrarle dinero a largo plazo debido a su durabilidad" Considero que no debería se un problema en la fase constructiva de un proyecto, pues todos estos datos deben estar establecidos en el alcance del proyecto y su planificación. Considero que sí se debe realizar una comparación entre precios, pero luego de haber filtrado a los únicos productos que cumplen con la calidad esperada en la definición inicial del proyecto

Comparing the material requirement is done early in the project. The life of the asset will determine cost of the material. My view on the durability and life cycle cost need to be made on product performance rather than on data supplied by the vendors. U never know how the vendors have developed the product data. Need to always verify. Always specify product which is readily available

When choosing between quality and cost in construction, it's essential to evaluate suppliers on several key factors. Beyond price, consider the supplier’s reliability, financial stability, and capacity to scale with your projects. A more expensive supplier with a track record of on-time deliveries, consistent quality, and adherence to industry standards (e.g., ISO certifications) can save costs in the long run by reducing defects, rework, and delays. Negotiating better terms, especially for long-term partnerships, can also make higher-quality suppliers more affordable. In the end, investing in reliable suppliers can lead to smoother project execution and fewer risks.

People or companies are focusing in what they can do in thier product and services, but we have also to focus how could help our customers and users to use products in more friendly way. One general example, people used to wrap gifys in fansy way consuming a lot papers and material. we have to find way to increase the awarness of people about sustainability subject. I know young people that sustainability is important factor when they are booking thier hotels.

U have so many standards on sustainability that u need to understand what material is good . I need to have a good judgement of what u are looking for. One of the basis I would go for sustainability which we need to look is how the material is sustainable in the place or country u are in. The product in one country which might be good may not be good in another country so make decisions wisely

Look for materials that offer environmental benefits, like recycled content or lower emissions, which can also align with LEED or other green building certifications. Sustainable choices can improve your project’s profile and appeal, especially for clients prioritizing eco-friendly construction.

Balancing quality and cost is all about managing risks. High-quality materials might cost more upfront but can reduce the risks of future failures or additional maintenance. On the flip side, cheaper materials can lead to rework or delays. Always have a clear, documented process for evaluating risks associated with material choices, and communicate potential impacts to your client early to keep expectations aligned.